Deandre Ayton Reveals Real Reason Behind Lakers Decision originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The Los Angeles Lakers enter the summer with a renewed frontcourt configuration, having added former No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton on a two‑year deal following his buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers.

Ayton's addition makes the Lakers better on paper. But it will be what happens when no one is watching that demonstrates his biggest impact.

Once a key cog on a Suns team that was two wins away from winning the 2021 NBA title, Ayton admits that his time in Portland was a challenge but says the chance to play alongside Luka Doncic and